As the father of a 20-year-old and a 17-year-old, I get exposed to some interesting aspects of modern culture through their viewing habits.

I'm not sure we can learn much from the constant stream of “epic fail” videos that our youngest streams onto our TV via Youtube, or from some guy called Memeulous making fun of “Blackpool Grime” (don't ask).

But if we look at the rising stars who've made it big on Youtube, Instagram, Snapchat and other new media, there are definitely some patterns.

Of course, none of us is likely (or would want) to become the next Youtube sensation. But if we have an open mind we can absolutely take the lessons from what these folks have done and apply them to our own businesses. 

So what do these new media superstars do that makes them so successful (and that we can apply ourselves)?

Well, firstly, they have something different to say.

If you're not in their target demographic then their video game reviews, makeup tutorials or humour might not seem interesting or different to you. But to the people they aim at, they hit the spot. And they're different to all the other people doing similar things.

Is your content clearly different to your audience, or do you essentially say the same things as others in your field?

Secondly, they reach directly to their audience.

They don't rely on publishers or magazine editors or other people's websites or shows to get their material in front of their audience. They've established their own presence and their fans come directly to them.

Do you have a direct channel to your ideal clients, or are you reliant on other people for them to hear your message?

Thirdly, they communicate frequently and regularly.

No one became a Youtube sensation or Instagram superstar by publishing once and waiting for things to happen. They publish weekly or more often. They keep their fans coming back for more time and time again.

How frequently do you communicate with your ideal clients?

Nail these 3 things: a distinctive point of view, reaching your ideal clients directly and communicating regularly and you can establish yourself as a trusted and respected authority for your clients.

Miss any of the 3 and it'll be an uphill battle.